DESCRIPTION:

This course is designed to give a general introduction to Baptists--their history, distinctive doctrines and denominational polity. Its aim is to provide the student with a working knowledge of Baptist distinguishing characteristics, roots, growth and fruit. Special attention will be given to the Baptist understanding of the doctrine of the church, religious authority and freedom, baptism and the Lords Supper. Students will learn how to do baptisms, weddings and funerals and will practice administering baptism coached by an experienced pastor. Students will learn the standards and procedures for ordination and write their doctrinal statement. Students will research the structure and governance practices and procedures of their denominational.

Satisfactory completion of this course will provide the student with the necessary information to be equipped for ordination and ministry among Baptists.

The course will meet for three-hour sessions once a week for lecture and discussion. One class session will meet in a local Baptist church in order to practice administering baptism.

Leonard, Bill J. Baptist Ways: A History. Valley Forge, Judson Press, 2003

Marring, Norman H.; and Winthrop S. Hudson. A Baptist Manual of Polity and Practice. Rev. ed. Valley Forge: Judson Press, 1991.

The New Testament (New International Version suggested)

Borden, Paul D. Hit the Bullseye: How Denominations Can Aim Congregations at the Mission Field. Nashville, Abingdon, 2003.

Brackney, William, ed. Baptist Life and Thought: A Source Book. Rev. ed. Valley Forge: Judson Press, 1998.

Freeman, Curtis; James Wm. McClendon Jr.; and Villas da Silver. Baptist Roots. Valley Forge: Judson Press, 1999.

Goodwin, Everett, ed. Baptists in the Balance. Valley Forge: Judson Press, 1997.

Lumpkin, William. Baptist Confessions of Faith. Valley Forge: Judson Press, 1959.

Mullen, E. V. Axioms of Religion. Broadman & Holman, 1997.

Stewart, Howard R. American Baptists and the Church. Lanham, Md.: University Press of America, 1997.

1. Assigned reading must be completed in order to be prepared for class discussion.

2. A five-page paper on the Baptist concept of the nature and mission of the church.

3. A five-page paper on the Baptist perspective on religious authority and freedom.

4. A five-page personal statement of faith which can be submitted to an ordination council.

5. A five-page paper on the Baptist perspective on baptism and the Lords Supper.

6. A five-page paper on the Baptist perspective on congregational church governance.

7. A five-page research paper on the structure and governance practices and procedures of the students denomination.

8. A one-page outline of a New Testament book. Specific book will be assigned in class.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in pastoral Ministry and Theology (MIN 6).